The City's first new disc golf course in 25 years will open in Alton Baker Park on Monday, April 1. The 18-hole course was intentionally designed in the underused and overgrown areas of the park, and stresses the safety of other park users. Contract Manager Andy Rich has taken over the City’s responsibilities for mowing and maintenance of the course’s 14 acres and will also pay the City a monthly fee.
The new course is also the city’s first pay-to-play disc golf course. The daily fee is $3. Annual memberships sell for $40-$60 and allow open play and other benefits.
You might say it’s serendipitous that Andy Rich is contract manager of the new course. He was inspired to take up the sport at age 10 when he first saw it being played at Westmoreland. Six years later, he was Oregon Disc Golf Champion. Now, as the manager of the Alton Baker course, he will no doubt help dozens of other kids – and adults – start playing the sport.
Rich says he’s seen kids as young as five playing the sport, and definitely encourages youth in middle and high school to play.
The Alton Baker course will soon also feature a pro shop, a snack bar and food cart. Later this summer, Rich says players will be able to call or go online to reserve tee times.